Photo/Writer: Ryah Heart Photo

Some concerts are adrenaline fueled, pumped up by the music and energy. But there are some that are a full on “took me to CHURCH” experience.

The first time they came through Knoxville, they sold out quickly. Same story this time. When the upcoming 3 nights at Ryman Theater were announced, all 3 nights sold out within 5 hours. A fan described the band’s look as “the lead singer looks like Elvis and the rest of the band, Skynyrd.” Very very accurate.

But when the show started, a definite air of reverence was in the crowd. All attention was on the stage. Red Clay Strays have a very loyal fan base, many of whom have been devoted since first seeing the band many years ago. David Thomas introduced himself to us during the show and filled us in on the band’s history since he first saw them in 2017. He told us full stories about the inspiration for the songs as they came up, about being “the person to call” when the band needs help, about how each member has grown.

He spoke like a father, proud of each one of “his boys”. I thought maybe this was a diamond of a person. But, in reading through the Strays Fans Facebook group, I found many more just like him. Many more stories of the highs and struggles “their boys” have been thru. A true sense of pride as huge fans of a band whose persona they believe in.

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